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CCPC reminds firms on accessibility rules

The consumer-protection watchdog has reminded businesses that new rules on accessibility requirements came into effect on 28 June.

The regulations transpose into Irish law the European Accessibility Act (EAA), a directive that aims to improve the accessibility of a wide range of consumer products and services – including websites, ATMs, and consumer-banking services – for people with disabilities.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has published updated information for businesses on their obligations under the act on its website.

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The CCPC has been designated as the market-surveillance authority for all products under the EAA and as the compliance authority for e-commerce and e-books.

This means that businesses that offer these products or services must comply with the relevant accessibility requirements for their products or service.

The commission says that businesses should ensure that they comply with the EAA, adding that it will provide support and guidance to help companies, especially micro-enterprises, understand and meet their obligations.

The CCPC’s guidelines for businesses include information on how to notify the CCPC of non-compliance or claimed exemptions, as well as guidance for consumers on making complaints.